Kobe Rapid Transit Railway

The Kobe Rapid Transit Railway is a special rapid transit system that serves commuters travelling to the Central districts in the Japanese city of Kobe.

The system operates three main lines:

• Tozai Line (East-West Line): Connects various important districts across the city.
• Namboku Line (North-South Line): Provides connectivity between the northern and southern parts of Kobe.
• Hokushin Line: A more recent addition, enhancing connectivity in northern Kobe.

Kobe Rapid Transit Railway Map

Map of Kobe Rapid Transit Railway showing different lines. Click on the map to enlarge it or download the Kobe Rapid Transit Railway map in PDF format.

Kobe Rapid Transit Railway Lines

There are three lines that are part of this rail network in the city: the east-west Tozai Line, the north-south Namboku Line and the Hokushin Line. The Namboku and Tozai Lines were originally operated by the railway company with the Hokushin Line being a recent addition to the service.

Along the Namboku and Tozai Lines, the Rapid Transit Railway Company of Kobe does not operate its own services. Instead, it allows four other private railway networks to run their services through the city on the infrastructure that is provided by this Railway Company of Kobe. Up until September of 2010, the company was in charge of administration and operation of the stations along these two lines, except for the stations at Minatogawa, Nishidai, Motomachi and Sannomiya which were operated by the respective service operators. At present though, all the stations are maintained and administered by these four companies that run their services along the Namboku and Tozai lines.

The Hokushin Line was initially under administration of the Hokushin Kyuko Electric Railway. As the company fell on hard times in 2002, it sold off its rights to the Kobe Rapid Railway Transit Company. Here too the company does not operate services or maintain the platforms which is a responsibility of the Hokushin Kyuko Railway Company.

Connectivity

The Kobe Rapid Transit Railway links with other major rail systems, including the Hankyu Railway, Hanshin Electric Railway, and Sanyo Electric Railway, providing seamless integration with wider regional transportation networks.

Facilities and Features

• Modern Amenities: Stations are equipped with advanced facilities including Wi-Fi, automated ticketing, and security systems.
• Accessibility: The railway ensures ease of access for disabled passengers with elevators, ramps, and Braille indicators.
• Feeder Services: There are feeder bus services to improve last-mile connectivity from major stations.

Timings and Frequency

Operating Hours: Generally from early morning to late evening, specific times vary by line and station.

Train Frequency: Peak hours see trains every 5-10 minutes, while off-peak hours have slightly reduced frequency.